Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Attendees will gain new insight about the ways information technology can help improve their financial status at a special McKnight's "virtual trade show" in two weeks.This year, offerings have been broadened for the free, two-day event. Peter Kress, one of the nation's foremost experts on the role of information technology in long-term care, will lead a session entitled "Leveraging IT to improve the bottom line" at 11 a.m. Eastern on March 27. Additional highlights include a keynote address on innovations and the future of seniors housing. Obligation-free registration for the March 26-27 event is available at www.mcknights.com.

DM Systems recently introduced the Heelift Bariatric Suspension Boot. The product is designed for patients who weigh up to 600 pounds. It can accommodate calf circumferences of 12 inches to 23 inches, according to the firm.

Safety Bath has unveiled a bathtub designed specifically for long-term care residents. The Supreme walk-in tub offers easy access, promotes independence, has multiple jets and provides a safe, comfortable, environment, according to the firm.

EPS Inc. has added Lab Guard Specimen Bags to its line of re-sealable bags and transport items. Designed to meet National Committee on Clinical Laboratory standards, these bags reduce the risk of messy spills and leaks. The product has a special document pouch design that allows specimens and paperwork to be kept together, according to the firm.

The full implementation of e-prescribing technology could come within three years, according to one of its foremost proponents. Former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich declared that possibility last week when he joined and Sen. John Kerry (D-MA) for the introduction of a bill designed to stimulate the adoption of e-prescribing.

Eli Lilly and Company has unveiled a small tool aimed at battling a big problem - chronic disease. Lilly's free pocket-sized health book, A Healthy You! - America's Guide to Healthy Living, puts useful tips and resources in the hands of seniors so they can lead a healthy life and prevent health issues such as diabetes, heart disease and cancer.

The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) has called on healthcare professionals to exercise greater care and vigilance when performing or observing injections on patients. "Published standards and guidelines dictate that single-use and disposal of these products is the best way to ensure patient safety," said Wanda Wilson, Ph.D., the organization's president. The call for greater precaution follows recent reports from Nevada and New York in which patients were infected with hepatitis C allegedly through the reuse of needles and syringes.